BENIN CITY: Toba Owojaiye reporting
In what can only be described as a desperate grasp for relevance, the recently impeached Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, has attempted to reassert himself in office, despite the political realities on the ground.
Truth Live News gathered from a video broadcast shared via his X handle, Shaibu, whose impeachment saga is still pending in the Court, has boldly directed his staff to return to their duties, issuing veiled threats to those who might be hesitant.
However, the cracks in his comeback are already showing. Sources suggest that even the staff he’s urging to join in this charade are second-guessing their involvement.
Many are reluctant to align themselves with a man whose political fortunes appear to be hanging by a thread, regardless of the court’s ruling.
Shaibu, undeterred by the lukewarm response, recalled the court’s judgment with a hint of bravado, asserting that his office was never truly vacant.
Yet, the air of desperation is hard to miss as he grapples to reclaim the reins of power in a state that seems to have moved on without him.
Adding to the drama, Shaibu alleged that upon his return to Edo State, an assassination attempt was made on his life.
The bullet, however, missed its intended target, tragically wounding a police officer instead—a chilling reminder of the volatile atmosphere surrounding Edo politics.
Despite his efforts to project strength, Shaibu’s calls for the reinstatement of his aides have gone unanswered by the state governor, leaving him in an awkward limbo.
His stern warning to staff to return to work or face sanctions only underscores the growing sense of futility in his attempts to reclaim authority.
As the impeached deputy governor struggles to regain his footing, the question remains whether this latest move is a genuine return to power or merely the last act of a man clutching at straws.
Either way, it’s clear that not everyone is buying into the narrative he’s trying so hard to sell.